Christoph Kessel

Flute/Piccolo

My musical journey began with flute studies with Thomas Kay, and continued with the Waterloo Regional Police Band, White Oaks Choral Society, Wellington Winds, K-W Philharmonic Choir, University of Guelph Symphony Orchestra and Choir. When I moved to Guelph I was in a wind quintet with Leslie Marshall (bassoon), Larry Moser (clarinet), Kristi Bos (oboe), Fred Webb (horn). We enjoyed having a group to play with and eventually expanded our repertoire to septets and nonets since we all had connections with other local musicians. Leslie reached out to Simon Irving with the idea of forming a small chamber orchestra. Simon embraced the idea and the Guelph Chamber Orchestra was formed, later to become the Guelph Symphony Orchestra.

What inspired you to pick up your instrument for the first time, and how has your journey evolved since then?
I was inspired by my Grade 7-8 instrumental and vocal music teachers. I began on the euphonium and tried several other wind and brass instruments before settling on the flute. I have also sung with several choirs. Music is about relationships: you and the instrument, the music, the composer, other musicians, and the audience. Whether playing chamber or orchestral music, or pub session craic, it's sharing that experience with people, that's music.

Can you share a memorable performance moment that still resonates with you today?
Our inaugural concert, March 4, 2001, preforming Brandenburg No. 4 with Jose Molina and Roseanne Warren.

Who is your favourite composer, and what piece of theirs do you love playing the most?
Favorite Composer: Richard Wagner. Favourite work: Tristan und Isolde

What is your favourite GSO memory?
Our concert with soprano, Isabel Bayrakdarian.

What is the best thing about being a member of Guelph Symphony?
The young guest artists who perform with us and seeing their international careers grow.